Patrick Peresuodei dies after a Facebook dispute with Apostle Bodmas; police launch manhunt while Governor Diri vows justice

A Facebook disagreement has ended in tragedy in Amassoma, Bayelsa State, where 24-year-old Patrick Peresuodei died following an alleged assault linked to online criticism of a local traditionalist and online personality, Apostle Bodmas Kemepadei.

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Patrick reportedly questioned Bodmas’ practices on Facebook, accusing him of deceiving young people.

On 15 January 2026, Patrick and his brother, Destiny, were allegedly taken from their home by Bodmas and associates, said to include NSCDC operatives.

Destiny claimed they were taken to Bodmas’ residence, tied up, and beaten with planks and machetes for over three hours before being handed over to the police.

Patrick was reportedly held in police custody for several days, during which his condition worsened.

He was later released to a relative for medical care but remained in critical condition and eventually passed away, sparking widespread anger and grief in the community.

Bodmas has denied all allegations, describing them as “false narratives.”

Meanwhile, the Bayelsa State Police Command has confirmed Patrick was released for medical attention and announced a manhunt for Bodmas and his alleged accomplices.

Governor Douye Diri condemned the incident and directed police to expedite investigations, vowing that anyone found culpable will face the full weight of the law.

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Civil society groups and the Amassoma Youth Association have called for justice, raising concerns over police brutality, misuse of security forces, and the dangers posed by online conflicts spilling into real life.